A technique for preparation of saphenous vein grafts

Late stenoses in vein grafts can result from trauma to the adventitia and the endothelium and to drying of the vein graft during preparation. Since vein grafts are sensitive to trauma, it is best to minimize nonphysiologic factors, that is, to avoid excessive hydrostatic pressure and excessive handling with instruments. With this method, the vein is prepared for distal anastomosis by distention at arterial pressure using blood as the physiologic solution. It avoids drying or prolonged storage under deleterious conditions while preparing for the anastomosis and shortens total operating time. Potential damage which can impair the efficiency of the vein as a conduit for blood is minimized.